There are three locations in New Jersey currently where you can fulfill this bucket list item. Slim pickings for sure, but trust me, it's worth the drive.

1. The Turtle Back Zoo - West Orange, NJ (Essex County)

The Turtle Back Zoo offers giraffe feeding at its new African Adventure exhibit. Think there isn't a high demand for giraffe exhibits? Essex County Executive Joe DiVincenzo told NJ.com that the giraffes would pay for themselves within a few years, and then help pay the rest of the zoo's expenses.

This one I have personal experience with. One day, Deminski & Doyle were doing a show from Six Flags Great Adventure, and I had the chance to take part in the giraffe feeding exhibit they have in their safari. I distinctly remember Noelle the giraffe eating roughly 50 hollowed out ice cream cones out of my hand.

3. Your dreams

Yes, after extensive research, the Turtle Back Zoo and Six Flags Great Adventure are the only two NJ locations were you can get up close and personal with a giraffe. If those two places won't cut it for you, there are always dreams. I'm not completely sure how to guarantee yourself that you'll see these graceful mammals when you fall asleep, but maybe go to bed with the Lion King soundtrack playing? Eating an entire head of lettuce might help too. In this scenario, you may be even able to ride a giraffe into the sunset, or maybe have a dialogue with it. I don't care, they're your dreams. Do what you want.

4. By the way, have you ever seen my giraffe shirt?

Photo taken by Chris Swendeman / Townsquare Media

If I missed a giraffe feeding exhibit in NJ, please let me know in the comment section below!